SpellingJoy Icon

Best Math Apps for 3rd Grade in 2025

Master multiplication, division, and fractions with these apps designed for 8-9 year olds.

SpellingJoy TeamSpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Third grader learning multiplication

Third grade is the multiplication year—and it's a big one. Kids need to memorize times tables, understand division, and tackle fractions for the first time. The right app makes this challenging year manageable and even fun.

We've tested apps specifically for 3rd grade's demanding standards, focusing on multiplication fluency, fraction understanding, and the critical skills that set kids up for success in upper elementary.

Our Top Picks:

1

Prodigy

Prodigy uses game-based learning to teach math, with a newer English/ELA component.

Visit Prodigy
Visit Site
Best for - Engaging practice that builds fluency
Price - $59-180/yr
Grades - Grades 1-8
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Engaging game format
  • ✓ Free basic version
  • ✓ Curriculum aligned

Cons

  • ✗ In-game purchase prompts
  • ✗ Premium expensive
  • ✗ Primarily math-focused
2

DreamBox

DreamBox is an adaptive K–8 math program that provides rigorous and personalized instruction using interactive visuals and intelligent scaffolding. Widely used in schools and homes.

Visit DreamBox
Visit Site
Best for - Visual fraction and multiplication lessons
Price - $12.95/mo
Grades - K-8
Platforms - Web, iOS

Pros

  • ✓ Personalized learning adapts in real time
  • ✓ Strong visual and conceptual explanations
  • ✓ Aligned with Common Core and state standards

Cons

  • ✗ Premium pricing
  • ✗ Can be overwhelming for some younger students
3

IXL

IXL is a comprehensive adaptive learning platform covering all subjects from Pre-K through 12th grade.

Visit IXL
Visit Site
Best for - Comprehensive 3rd grade skill practice
Price - $79-159/yr
Grades - Pre-K-12
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Comprehensive K-12 coverage
  • ✓ Adaptive learning
  • ✓ Detailed analytics

Cons

  • ✗ Expensive
  • ✗ Spelling is small part of ELA
4

Zearn

Zearn is a standards-aligned digital math platform offering comprehensive instruction, practice, and remediation. Free for families, premium for schools.

Visit Zearn
Visit Site
Best for - Complete 3rd grade lessons free
Price - Free (core)
Grades - K-8
Platforms - Web

Pros

  • ✓ Full curriculum for grades K–8
  • ✓ Free access for individuals
  • ✓ Embedded instruction and practice

Cons

  • ✗ Requires stable internet
  • ✗ Interface can feel clinical
5

Mathletics

Mathletics is an online platform offering curriculum-aligned math practice and live competitive games. Widely used in schools around the world.

Visit Mathletics
Visit Site
Best for - Competitive games that drive practice
Price - $99/yr
Grades - K-12
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Live competitions and global rankings
  • ✓ Curriculum-aligned content
  • ✓ Detailed reporting for educators

Cons

  • ✗ Pricey for families
  • ✗ Can feel repetitive
6

DragonBox

DragonBox offers a suite of playful, conceptual math games for kids ages 4–14. Apps teach algebra, numbers, geometry through intuitive gameplay.

Visit DragonBox
Visit Site
Best for - Building algebraic thinking
Price - $7.99-$24.99 (one-time)
Grades - K-9
Platforms - iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Highly engaging game-based learning
  • ✓ Focuses on number sense and algebra
  • ✓ Strong conceptual teaching

Cons

  • ✗ Limited content per app
  • ✗ No progress tracking
7

SplashLearn

SplashLearn offers game-based math and ELA practice for Pre-K through 5th grade. Known for engaging gameplay that keeps kids motivated.

Visit SplashLearn
Visit Site
Best for - Diverse multiplication games
Price - $80/yr
Grades - Pre-K-5
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Strong math AND reading content
  • ✓ Game-based learning kids love
  • ✓ Personalized learning paths

Cons

  • ✗ Premium features require subscription
  • ✗ Reading is newer than math content
  • ✗ Can be addictive for some kids

Frequently Asked Questions

3rd grade is the multiplication year: times tables through 10, division as inverse of multiplication, fractions, area/perimeter, and multi-digit addition/subtraction. Mastering multiplication is critical for future math success.

Our Verdict

For multiplication fluency: Prodigy makes times table practice feel like a game, building the automaticity kids need.

For understanding fractions: DreamBox teaches fractions visually so kids understand the concept, not just procedures.

For comprehensive coverage: IXL covers every 3rd grade skill with adaptive practice and detailed progress tracking.

Try SpellingJoy Free

About the Author

SpellingJoy Team

The SpellingJoy team is dedicated to creating free, high-quality spelling resources for K-6 students and their families. We test every app we review and provide honest assessments to help parents make informed decisions.

Related Articles

Best Math Apps for Elementary

K-5 overview

Best Math Apps for 2nd Grade

Previous grade

Best Math Apps for Kids

Full comparison